RANT AND RAVE Rave to the Japanese Garden at the Arboretum, just beginning to show its colors! Rant to the person smoking a cigarette there (gross, yuck) then having the wherewithal to crush the butt on the pathway. Clueless.

RAVE to the poet posted at a table in Green Lake Park who pens free poems for those who share their stories with them. What a wonderful way to make connections with strangers and to bring the arts into our daily lives!

RAVE to the King County Metro bus driver who not only will announce major intersections coming up but also every business establishment open. (He will announce fast food outlets, banks, grocery stores, etc. coming up at the next stop!)

RAVE to the kind and more than generous person who was at our local Greenwood pharmacy. They paid for my husband’s very expensive copay on a new diabetes medicine. We are so grateful and would not have been able to afford it without your generosity. What a heartwarming surprise!

RAVE to the bus driver who recently stopped their bus, stood up and checked on their passengers’ safety when one rider started loudly verbalizing incoherently. The driver asked if all the riders were OK. When we all said that we were, they returned to their seat and continued driving. Thank you for showing concern for your passengers’ safety. Such kindness and caring!

RAVE to all of our wonderful neighbors who do not block sidewalks, alleys or driveways. We all appreciate each other and public property.

RAVE to Seattle Public Library for providing children’s story times. The librarians at these events are so welcoming and engaging. In addition to reading books aloud, the librarians lead songs and hands-on activities for the young audiences. Thanks, SPL, for encouraging a new generation of readers.

RAVE to the crew on the 2:05 p.m. ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. I was on my way off, had cleared the gangway and was outside when I heard my name on the loudspeaker. In my haste to gather up my hat and package, I left my purse. I made my way back to the ferry and they met me with big smiles, asked for my middle initial and handed it over. And thanks to whoever found it! All items were still in place.

RAVE to the Seattle Sober Living homes. These homes for adults recovering from addiction are often their last chance to remain in the community of life, family and fulfillment. Never easy, but the support from SSL makes recovery a possibility. The employees’ tireless conviction and work, which is far from glamorous or profitable, is honorable. They have saved our family and many others.

RAVE to the nurses at the Childbirth Center at UW Medical Center. These nurses took care of my wife and new daughter with patience, professionalism and kindness. It’s pretty cool for a new girl dad to see a group of all women work for 16 hours straight to bring my daughter into this world.